Calcium carbonate compositions for preventing or treating hyperphosphatemia

Abstract

Compositions and methods for inhibiting gastrointestinal absorption of phosphate in a subject are provided. Such compositions are composed of enteric-coated, sustained-release calcium carbonate, which find application in the prevention or treatment of hyperphosphatemia.

1. A composition consisting of enteric-coated, sustained-release calcium carbonate. 
     
     
       2. The composition of  claim 1 , wherein the calcium carbonate is microcrystalline calcium carbonate. 
     
     
       3. The composition of  claim 1 , wherein said composition contains from 400 mg to 1500 mg of calcium. 
     
     
       4. A method for providing sustained-release of calcium carbonate in the small intestine of a subject comprising administering a composition of  claim 1  to a subject in need thereof thereby providing sustained-release of calcium carbonate in the small intestine of the subject. 
     
     
       5. A method for inhibiting gastrointestinal absorption of phosphate in a subject comprising orally administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of the composition of  claim 1  thereby inhibiting gastrointestinal absorption of phosphate in the subject. 
     
     
       6. A method for preventing or treating hyperphosphatemia comprising administering to a subject in need of treatment an effective amount of the composition of  claim 1  thereby preventing or treating hyperphosphatemia in the subject.